Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Opens GNRC Sixth Forum To Address Global Child Welfare Issues

The GNRC Sixth Forum commenced in Abu Dhabi, inaugurated by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. Organised by Arigatou International and hosted by the Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities, the event gathered religious leaders, intellectuals, and experts to tackle global issues impacting children. Topics included violence, poverty, climate change, and human trafficking.

Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the UAE's commitment to children's welfare, rooted in the vision of its Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He noted that President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan prioritises children's safety and well-being. The UAE integrates youth development with health and education to ensure their success.

The forum aims to develop sustainable solutions while raising awareness among society and policymakers about protecting children from unprecedented challenges. The UAE's selection as host underscores its role in promoting peace, tolerance, and coexistence globally. Its reputation in international forums further highlights this commitment.

In his keynote address, Sheikh Nahyan welcomed participants from within the UAE and abroad. He expressed gratitude to H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan for supporting initiatives that preserve human dignity and build a brighter future for all.

Sheikh Nahyan emphasised that discussions at the forum inspire creative thinking about enhancing interfaith collaboration for a hopeful future for children. He reiterated the UAE’s shared commitment to child welfare as a core national value.

He acknowledged H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's contributions to empowering children as Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. Known as the "Mother of the Emirates," she champions efforts to protect children.

Global Commitment to Children's Rights

Sheikh Nahyan reaffirmed the UAE's dedication to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Over 35 years since its adoption, progress has been made in reducing child mortality and improving education access. However, challenges like unnecessary child deaths persist.

"It takes a village to raise a child," Sheikh Nahyan stated at the forum. He stressed that interfaith communities are such villages focused on partnerships worldwide to secure a safe future for children.

Empowering Children Globally

The GNRC Sixth Forum seeks to convey children's aspirations regarding their basic rights through discussions over three days under "The Call of Childhood: Interfaith Cooperation." It aims to enhance international collaborative action for future generations' protection.

A preparatory conference involving over 100 children worldwide preceded this forum launch. Hosted with the Motherhood and Childhood Council of the UAE, it aimed at preparing children for active participation during discussions at this international event.

Addressing Global Challenges

The first day's discussions focused on building a safe world for children by addressing issues like digital dignity, family roles, community cooperation, psychological resilience amid crises, and mental health enhancement against global shocks.

Sheikh Nahyan concluded his address by affirming interfaith dialogue's transformative potential in creating hope for children worldwide through united efforts leveraging human creativity towards peace and prosperity.

"Let us pledge to give all children around the world a healthy life and sound education," he urged attendees. Humanity must not deprive millions of such opportunities; instead, it has an obligation to make them possible through global forums like this one.

With inputs from WAM